_A.M. 2983. B.C. 1021._ This is the seventh and last of those termed Penitential Psalms. It is thought to have been composed by David when Absalom his son persecuted him; and it was so inscribed in some old Greek copies. He complains, and prays for pardon and help, Psalms 143:1.... [ Continue Reading ]
_In thy faithfulness_ According to thy true and faithful promises, made to the penitent who apply to thee for pardon and aid; _answer me_ Grant my earnest request; _and in thy righteousness_ Whereby thou art inclined and engaged by promise to favour righteous persons and just causes. Or, the word, h... [ Continue Reading ]
_For the enemy hath persecuted my soul_ This is not a reason of what he said last, Psalms 143:2, but an argument to enforce his petition, delivered Psalms 143:1, and repeated Psalms 143:7. _He hath smitten my life down to the ground_ He hath beaten me down to the earth, where I lie struggling for li... [ Continue Reading ]
_I remember the days of old_ That is, but still, upon a more calm reflection, I consider what thou hast done for thy servants in former times, and likewise what thou hast done for me during the persecutions of Saul, and long before that time, in my younger days, when thou didst deliver me from the g... [ Continue Reading ]
_Hear me speedily_ Defer no longer; _for my spirit faileth_ I am just ready to faint. _Hide not thy face_ Be not angry with me; do not turn from me as one displeased with me, nor deprive me of the light of thy countenance: if I have thy favour let me know that I have it; _lest I be like unto them th... [ Continue Reading ]
Psalms 143:10 ; PSALMS 143:12. _Teach me to do thy will_ To continue in faithful obedience to thee, notwithstanding all temptations to the contrary. _Thy Spirit is good, lead me_, &c. Or rather, as it is exactly in the Hebrew, and as many, both ancient and modern translators, render the clause, _Let... [ Continue Reading ]